Recent research by Mercer found that employee loyalty – defined as the proportion of employees who report that they were “seriously considering leaving their organization” – is declining worldwide.

As you might expect, the percentage point increase was higher in countries with growing economies such as Brazil. However, even in the U.S., more people are seriously considering leaving their jobs.

When compared with the data collected before the economic downturn, the results of the most recent survey (2011) found that 9% more employees were considering leaving .

Replacement Jobs as Opportunities

What implications might this have for you if you are engaged in a job search or considering career change? Of course not everyone who is considering leaving their job will actually do so.

However this trend information is important because “intention to quit” is related to actual turnover. Even in an environment of slow job growth, replacement jobs are a source of opportunities. These positions can become available unexpectedly.

Are you Prepared?

Are you prepared if such an opportunity arises? Have you taken time to think about your career goals? Are you connected enough to learn about opportunities through your network? Consider what you need to do to be ready. What’s your first step?